Want a memorable but no-fuss dessert that impresses without the stress? Boxed mixes are your best friend when it comes to delivering a tasty cake without spending hours in the kitchen. From classic favorites to foolproof flavors, chefs weigh in on the best boxed cake mixes that result in a delicious and fail-safe outcome every time.
Betty Crocker Super Moist Vanilla Cake Mix
Walmart
For over 100 years, the fictional character of Betty Crocker has been a trusted brand for all things baking for many households and the Super Moist Vanilla Cake Mix is one of Dennis Littley, Chef and Recipe Expert at Ask Chef Dennis go-to’s. “This Crocker vanilla flavored cake mix always has the perfect balance of sweetness and texture,” he says. “That nostalgic smooth vanilla flavor many of us grew up with always hits the spot. It may not have the fanciest ingredients, but its fluffy, bouncy crumb and reliable results are why many chefs and bakers keep it stocked on hand.”
Duncan Hines Perfectly Moist Devil’s Food Cake Mix
Walmart
Another must-have for Chef Dennis is Duncan Hines Perfectly Moist Devil’s Food Cake Mix. “When I’m after something quick, that’s richer and deeply chocolatey, Duncan Hines’ Devil’s Food mix is my go-to,” he says. “It always bakes into a moist, flavorful chocolate cake, that classic home-style indulgence without the guesswork and extra time.”
Pillsbury Moist Supreme Yellow Cake Mix
Walmart
For 150 Pillsbury has been a leader in ready-to-bake products and the Moist Supreme Yellow Cake Mix is a pantry staple for Chef Julian Boudreaux, Chef at Mojave Gold. “Professional bakers appreciate its high-quality crumb, even browning, and tender, moist texture that doesn’t crack when sliced,” he says. “It allows for bakers to essentially make the perfect cake with no problems.” Rachel Kirk, recipe developer for LaughingSpatula.com agrees and says, “Flakey crumb, traditional vanilla flavor, super easy to make. Pillsbury is a trustworthy brand for a reason. I like that this cake has a vanilla flavor, without the artificial cake flavor you get with so many other boxed cakes. I’ve used this plenty of times not only for cakes and cupcakes, but it’s my go-to for trifles.”
Pamela’s Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake Mix
Walmart
You can’t get much more classic than a good vanilla cake and one that Chef Julian highly recommends is Pamela’s Gluten-Free Vanilla Cake Mix. “It is indistinguishable from gluten-based mixes,” he says. “It bakes up moist and fluffy with a golden exterior, it’s an easy fix with frosting though but this one is my overall favorite!
Aldi’s Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake Mix
Aldi
Aldi’s is a great place to score good finds at a great price and according to Nicole Hunn, Recipe Expert and Chef at Gluten Free on a Shoestring, their Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake Mix is incredible. “Aldi’s own version GF free chocolate boxed mix would be my top pick if you can get it locally and have an Aldo nearby. It’s ultra-affordable and delivers a moist, deeply chocolatey cake without fuss or frills. The texture holds up well whether you bake it as a sheet cake or cupcakes, and the clean ingredient list makes it a great everyday choice for all.
King Arthur Gluten-Free Confetti Cake Mix
Walmart
Another gluten-free option that’s recommended is the King Arthur Gluten-Free Confetti Cake Mix. “The texture in this confetti cake mix is always tender and moist, without that dry or grainy feel that gluten-free mixes sometimes have,” says Hunn. “It also holds together great when frosted, and those pastel-colored sprinkles are bright and evenly distributed throughout. I also appreciate that it’s made without synthetic colors or preservatives, so it feels a bit more thoughtful than your average boxed mix.”
Heather Newgen
Heather Newgen has two decades of experience reporting and writing about health, fitness, entertainment and travel. Heather currently freelances for several publications. Read more about Heather
